Page:HouseSparrowHomeAbroad.djvu/19

Rh sing. Ornithologists are not agreed as to which of the numerous Oscine families should occupy the head of the series; but Dr. Coues inclines to the opinion that some member of this family with the possession of nine primaries—as the finches or tanagers—will eventually assume the leading place. The Turdidæ, or Thrushes, in accordance with usage, occupy this position.

The Fringillidæ are the most extensive group in ornithology, representing, in round numbers, 500 current species in about 100 genera. This family represents more particularly what used to be designated "conirostral" birds. The bill of these birds approaches nearest to the ideal cone, and unites great strength with delicacy of touch.

The cone is sometimes nearly expressed, but frequently turgid and conoidal; convex in most directions, and so constructed as to become concave in some of its outlines. The nostrils are usually exposed, but in many northern genera the base of the bill is furnished with a ruff and two tufts of antrorse feathers, which more or less conceal the opening; the cutting edges of bill are slightly notched, but otherwise plain; a few inconspicuous bristles about rictus; ordinarily, somewhat lacking; in some, highly developed. The wings are composed of nine developed primaries, variable in size; the tail is variable, but always composed of twelve rectrices; feet scutellate in front, and covered on side with an undivided plate, which produces a sharp ridge posteriorly.

The most tangible character of this group is the angulation of the commissure; this character runs in a